(Approaching stone steps) c. 1810 - 1839

This print, attributed to Satō Gyodai, was made using woodblocks, a process that deeply influences its aesthetic. Woodblock printing demands a close relationship between the artist and the material. The grain of the wood determines the flow of the knife, dictating the crisp lines and flat planes of color we see here. Each color requires a separate block, demanding meticulous carving and alignment. Notice how the limited palette and subtle gradations create depth and atmosphere, characteristic of Ukiyo-e prints. This wasn't just a technique; it was an industry. Ukiyo-e prints were produced for a growing urban audience, a product of their time. The skilled artisans who carved and printed these blocks were essential to the whole operation. So, next time you see a print like this, remember the labor and the material at its heart. It's a beautiful example of how art, craft, and industry intertwine.